Exploring the Art and Craft of Ski Design: A Conversation with Ski Designer Bruno Ameye

Introducing Bruno: Bruno Ameye’s design journey spans over three decades, with 24 remarkable years dedicated to Salomon, where he has contributed to shaping the brand's visual identity and product innovations. Evolving through roles such as Graphic Artist Colorist and Senior Designer, Bruno has left an indelible mark on the brand’s cutting-edge performance gear.

SALOMON: You've had a remarkable 24-year career at Salomon. How has your long tenure at the company shaped your design philosophy, and what are the most significant challenges you have faced during this period?

Bruno Ameye: My time at Salomon has been truly transformative. Over the years, I've developed a sharp eye for detail and learned that good design is all about balance—finding that sweet spot between form and function. One of the biggest challenges I faced was keeping my creativity fresh. It’s easy to fall into routine, so I had to stay mindful of not becoming complacent. Each project needed a new approach, a different spark of energy, which sometimes required stepping back and rethinking everything. Salomon’s fast-paced and innovative environment pushed me to constantly evolve and adapt, which wasn’t always easy, but it was incredibly rewarding.

S: What do you enjoy doing outside of your work at Salomon?

BA: Outside of my work at Salomon, I immerse myself in a range of creative pursuits. I love crafting custom furniture, designing lighting, and even making musical instruments—these hands-on projects let me dive into my passion for craftsmanship. It’s a way to bring my appreciation for artisanal skill into something tangible, blending creativity with functionality. I’m also deeply inspired by Jean Prouvé’s holistic approach, which merges industrial techniques with the art of handcrafting.

When I’m not working on design projects, I spend a lot of time in nature, whether it's through adventure sports like hiking and canoeing or just enjoying the outdoors. I also love reading, cinema, and music, as they keep me creatively engaged and provide a sense of balance. All these passions outside of work help me maintain that harmony between creativity, nature, and design.

S: Your love for nature and non-competitive outdoor activities, such as hiking and canoeing, clearly plays a significant role in your life. How do these passions influence your design philosophy, particularly in the outdoor and sports sectors?

BA: Nature is my biggest teacher. There’s a kind of purity in the way nature works—everything has a purpose, and nothing feels excessive. When I’m out hiking or paddling, I find myself observing how things flow and fit together. That simplicity really guides my designs. I always aim for products that feel like an obvious, natural solution to a need—something that fits so well it almost disappears into the background. It’s about creating gear that not only performs well but also feels right, connecting with people on a more instinctive level.

S: In sports, you prefer connection and contemplation over performance. How do you translate this philosophy into your work on high-performance products like the S/LAB NORDIC range, known for pushing the limits of technology in cross-country skiing equipment?

BA: The S/LAB NORDIC range was an interesting challenge because we were working with cutting-edge technology, especially with carbon, yet we wanted each ski to have its own character. Like in nature, where no two things are identical, we leaned into those small imperfections that naturally occur in manufacturing. Each ski had to be precise, but it also needed to feel unique to the user. For me, it wasn’t just about performance; it was about making something that felt personal. Even when designing high-performance gear, I think it’s important to keep that sense of connection—so that the skier feels like the equipment is almost an extension of themselves.

Bruno Amaye's journey at Salomon is a testament to the power of innovation, craftsmanship, and an unwavering connection to nature. His ability to balance technical precision with aesthetic vision has resulted in products that not only perform at the highest levels but also resonate emotionally with users. From his early years as a designer to his most recent projects, Bruno has consistently shown that great design goes beyond functionality—it tells a story, connects with people, and reflects the beauty of the natural world. His enduring legacy at Salomon serves as an inspiration for future designers, encouraging them to remain curious, adaptable, and deeply connected to the environments they create for.